Analysis The numbers behind the result
Clinical NYCFC secure win despite lower chances
The result was deserved for New York City FC, who were markedly more clinical than Chicago Fire despite being outplayed in key metrics. NYCFC converted three of their three shots on target, significantly overperforming their 1.31 xG, while Chicago scored just once from five shots on target, underperforming an almost identical 1.36 xG. NYCFC’s efficiency in front of goal, coupled with Chicago’s inability to capitalise on superior possession (53%) and more corners (2 vs 1), proved decisive.
NYCFC built their victory in a ruthless first-half blitz, with Nicolás Mercau (11'), Agustín Ojeda (29'), and Malachi Jones (41') all finding the net. Ojeda, with a goal and assist, was the standout performer, ensuring NYCFC’s lower possession (47%) and fewer total passes (416 vs 464) didn’t hinder their success. Chicago, who saw Joel Waterman equalise in the 21st minute, struggled to turn their dominance into clear-cut chances, with their goalkeepers failing to make a single save.
The decisive stat was NYCFC’s clinical finishing: they scored three goals from just three shots on target, highlighting their efficiency in high-leverage moments.